Once Upon A Time in the South Loop by The Planetary Blues Band

The Planetary Blues Band’s latest release, Once Upon A Time in the South Loop is a must hear for old and modern blues fans; a new spin from a 4-piece of old souls.

The Planetary Blues Band is formed by brothers Martin Schaefer-Murray (guitar and lead vocals) Bobby Schaefer-Murray (bass) and Michael Schaefer-Murray (guitar). Their longtime friend, Nick Evans, on drums. The band is based in Valparaiso, Indiana, and has been paying dues in Midwest bars and at local festivals for over ten years.

The album, recorded an mixed ‘in house’, is a blues layered mix of roots, soul, and swamp. Highlighted by Wailing vocals, and twin guitar leads, think of Allman Brothers jamming with Cream circa 1969. Wanna hear some Buddy Guy and Albert King style shredding? Listen to the album gem When I say I love you, and trust me, you will not be disappointed. For a Texas-style romp, spin Crazy Cryin’ Blues, and don’t forget your dancing shoes. Take a drive through the Country mountains with That’s No Way To Get Along as your companion. The album is closed out just as it should be with the swing-tastic The Shillelagh. Call it a cliffhanger that leaves you with suspense and anticipation for their next release.

Since their humble beginnings ‘in Mom’s basement’, The Planetary Blues Band has shared the stage with some of their biggest influences, such as Son Seals and Buddy Guy. They’ve played the Chicago Blues Festival, headlined their hometown’s famous Popcorn Festival 3x, and play some of the best venues in the Midwest, including regular appearances at two world-renowned Blues clubs, Buddy Guy’s Legends in Chicago, and The Slippery Noodle Inn in Indianapolis. After all this and a listen through this great release Once Upon a Time in the South Loop, the only question on one’s mind will be “What’s next for the Planetary Blues Band?”.

About The Author

Mike Leslie is the lead singer and guitarist of the Detroit-based Mike Leslie Band. Formed in 2012, MLB has sold out numerous shows, won two Detroit Music Awards, including the People’s Choice Award, showcased at SXSW 2013 and 2014 and won DOUG FM’s regional crown at Battle of the Bands. In 2014, MLB released their debut album and went on the road for their first headlining U.S. tour.Mike earned a BA in Psychology from Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan and minored in Art History and English. His skill as a author and love of the written word was refined in college, but goes back to his early days in high school as an aspiring song writer and musician.Mike Leslie joins National Rock Review as a Celebrity Columnist. He will be a regular contributor with his column, 'Letters From Leslie', covering artists both in Detroit and across the nation.